[Topical administration of an hyperoxygenated fatty acid compound. Preventive and curative effects on pressure ulcer].

BACKGROUND

Hyper-oxygenized acidic fats are a very useful topical use product for preventing pressure ulcers and to treat stage I pressure ulcers. Mepentol is a hyper-oxygenized acidic fats product (linoleic acid, gamma linolenic acid, oleic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, palmitoleic acid, arachidonic acid and eicosenoic acid) with extracts of Equisetum Avrense and Hypericum Perforatum. It works in three main facets: improve as is possible the epidermis's resistance, repair the damage to the epidermis produced by a prolonged pressure, and restore capillary circulation and counter arrest the effect of oxygen radicals produced during reactive hyperemia which are caused by periods of prolonged pressure. The exclusive formula, based on hyperoxygenized acidic fats and the above referred plant extracts, gives to Mepentol a demonstrated effectiveness, and also special features, like speed of action, great speed of topical absorption and a peculiar fragrance. PATIENTS, MATERIAL AND METHOD: In order to evaluate the tissue level effect of Mepentol, we carried out an experimental research project based on two different objectives: determine the effect at capillary circulation level in heels of healthy volunteers and in patients under risk of developing pressure ulcers, a well as in the treatment of stage I pressure ulcers in patients under high risk of developing pressure ulcers. To do so, the authors determined the capillary blood flow by means of a Doppler laser flow meter.

RESULTS

After the application of a hyper-oxygenized acidic fats product, the authors noted an increase of 122.29 +/- 68.74% in flow units related to base values. The authors also observed an increase in microcirculation in heels of patients under high risk of developing pressure ulcers, as well as those who suffer from stage I lesions. These increases remain constant over long periods of time.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the tests carried out, Mepentol shows an undoubtable effect which improves local circulation in zones under risk of developing pressure ulcers as well as for stage I lesions; this supports the use of this product as a preventive measure against pressure ulcers and as treatment for stage I lesions.